Leadership Overview
Cortland has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, marketing, operations, and human resources.
Driven by innovation, Cortland is a global, multifamily real estate investment firm leveraging proprietary design and integrated supply chains to deliver exceptional living experiences and value.
Driven by innovation, Cortland is a global, multifamily real estate investment firm leveraging proprietary design and integrated supply chains to deliver exceptional living experiences and value.
Leadership Roles at Cortland
Stephen DeFrancis - Chief Executive Officer
Stephen DeFrancis, the Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the global multifamily real estate investment firm. DeFrancis guides the company's expansion and market positioning, ensuring alignment with its core mission of delivering value through integrated design, construction, and property management services. Overseeing all major corporate initiatives, Stephen DeFrancis drives the firm's commitment to innovation and client satisfaction across its diverse portfolio. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for Cortland's continued growth and market leadership in the real estate sector. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on optimizing business performance and fostering a culture of excellence throughout the organization.
Mike Levy - Owner & Chief Executive Officer
Mike Levy, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, holds ultimate responsibility for the firm's strategic direction and ownership oversight. Levy's leadership shapes the company's long-term vision and investment philosophy, ensuring Cortland's sustained success in the global multifamily real estate market. As Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Mike Levy champions the integration of proprietary design and in-house services, including construction and property management, to enhance operational efficiency and resident experience. This executive position involves critical decision-making regarding capital allocation and market expansion strategies. Levy's influence extends to cultivating key partnerships and driving the company's overall financial health and market impact.
Sandra Kim - Chief Financial Officer
Sandra Kim, the Chief Financial Officer at Cortland, manages all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the global real estate investment firm. Kim oversees capital deployment, investment analysis, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal health and sustainable growth. The Chief Financial Officer directs treasury functions, risk management, and investor relations, supporting Cortland's proprietary design and integrated supply chain strategies. Sandra Kim's expertise is critical in navigating complex financial markets and optimizing the company's investment portfolio. This role involves close collaboration with other executives to align financial objectives with operational goals, driving profitability and shareholder value across all multifamily properties.

Juan Bueno - President, Operations
Juan Bueno, the President, Operations at Cortland, oversees the comprehensive operational execution of the company's multifamily real estate portfolio. Bueno directs property management, facilities maintenance, and construction oversight, ensuring seamless service delivery and resident satisfaction. The President, Operations leads the integration of Cortland's in-house service capabilities, optimizing efficiency and quality across all properties. Juan Bueno's focus is on driving operational excellence and implementing best practices in property management and development. This leadership position is fundamental to maintaining Cortland's reputation for high-quality living environments and efficient asset management.
Philip De - President
Philip De, the President at Cortland, contributes to the strategic leadership and operational oversight of the global multifamily real estate investment firm. De's executive role involves guiding key business functions and ensuring the effective implementation of Cortland's integrated approach to property development and management. The President focuses on enhancing operational performance and fostering strategic partnerships that support the company's growth objectives. Philip De's leadership is instrumental in maintaining Cortland's commitment to proprietary design and superior resident experiences. This position drives forward the company's mission to deliver exceptional value in the real estate market.
Pete Koelle - President
Pete Koelle, the President at Cortland, plays a significant role in directing the strategic initiatives and operational success of the multifamily real estate investment firm. Koelle oversees critical business segments, ensuring the cohesive execution of Cortland's proprietary design and in-house construction services. The President is dedicated to optimizing operational workflows and enhancing the company's market position through strategic decision-making. Pete Koelle's leadership reinforces Cortland's commitment to delivering high-quality living environments and superior property management. This executive function is key to driving innovation and sustained growth within the real estate sector.
Karen Sheldon - Executive Business Partner To the President
Karen Sheldon, the Executive Business Partner To the President at Cortland, provides essential strategic support and operational coordination for presidential leadership. Sheldon facilitates key projects and communications, ensuring seamless alignment between executive directives and departmental execution within the real estate investment firm. The Executive Business Partner To the President enhances organizational efficiency by managing critical administrative and strategic tasks. Karen Sheldon's role is vital in supporting the President's objectives and contributing to the smooth operation of Cortland's integrated business model. This position ensures effective workflow management and supports the company's overall strategic goals.
Carol Hoeller - Chief Marketing Officer
Carol Hoeller, the Chief Marketing Officer at Cortland, leads all marketing initiatives and brand strategy for the multifamily real estate investment firm. Hoeller develops and executes comprehensive marketing plans to enhance property desirability and drive resident acquisition across Cortland's portfolio. The Chief Marketing Officer oversees market research, digital marketing, and brand communications, ensuring consistent messaging that reflects the company's commitment to proprietary design and integrated services. Carol Hoeller's strategic direction amplifies Cortland's market presence and resident engagement. This executive function is vital for communicating the value proposition of Cortland's unique approach to property management and development.

Thomas Kramer - Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff
Thomas Kramer, the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff at Cortland, spearheads critical strategic initiatives and provides high-level operational support to executive leadership. Kramer manages cross-functional project execution, ensuring alignment with Cortland's core business objectives in real estate investment and development. The Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff facilitates communication and drives efficiency across departments, supporting the company's integrated supply chain and in-house service models. Thomas Kramer's role is pivotal in translating strategic visions into actionable plans, optimizing project outcomes and contributing to the firm's overall operational excellence and market impact.
Kevin Ingham - Chief Human Resources Officer
Kevin Ingham, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Cortland, directs all human capital strategies and organizational development for the global real estate firm. Ingham oversees talent acquisition, employee engagement, and HR policy implementation, fostering a culture that supports Cortland's integrated service model. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the development and retention of a skilled workforce essential for proprietary design, construction, and property management operations. Kevin Ingham's leadership is crucial for aligning HR initiatives with the company's growth objectives and commitment to employee well-being. This executive role drives the creation of a supportive and high-performing work environment across all Cortland operations.
Explore Leadership Teams in Real Estate
Southern Management Corporation is a privately owned residential property. It offers apartment homes, commercial office buildings, hotels, and conference centers. The company is headquartered in Vienna, Virginia.
Company Leadership AS
CH
SH

Hartz Mountain Industries is a private family-owned-and-operated company known for its real estate holdings in the New York &New Jersey.
Company Leadership
KH
CM

The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) focuses on enhancing national growth and generating sustainable income through the development of land holdings and attractions. They implement, facilitate, and coordinate major projects as outlined in their strategic plans. UDC's intended clients include government entities and private sector partners, as they manage various subsidiaries and attractions across Jamaica. Their projects range from parks and commercial centers to significant infrastructure developments.
Company Leadership IC
BA
MW
Mark-Taylor Companies is a privately held developer, owner, and investment manager of multifamily communities, established in 1985. With over 50,000 residents, the company is recognized for its luxury living spaces and innovative community services, including advanced smart home technology and a home portal app. Mark-Taylor prioritizes relationships with residents, team members, and business partners, earning accolades as a top multifamily management company. Their offerings cater to individuals seeking high-quality living experiences in Arizona.
Company Leadership JC
CD
MW
ST